Penguins Update: Split Up Crosby and Kessel?

After watching the Penguins’ big guns struggle to produce through the early going, I’d like to pose a question.

Is it time to split up Sidney Crosby and Phil Kessel?

I know. To even suggest such a move smacks of panic. Not to mention cruel and unusual punishment. After all, Sid’s waited his whole career—or at least since Marian Hossa left the ‘Burgh—for a winger of Kessel’s pedigree. And it sure would dampen our lofty expectations of an electric pair lighting up scoreboards for the black and gold.

So do three straight season-opening losses.

The naked truth? Thus far, Crosby’s game reads like an old Dick-and-Jane primer. See Sid skate. See Sid carry the puck. See Sid pass up a shot to feed Kessel.

Nor has the Pens’ second dynamic duo, Evgeni Malkin and Patric Hornqvist, enjoyed much success. In the four games they played together in Crosby’s absence last season, Hornqvist recorded a lone assist. Granted, a small window. But enough to get a picture. Factor in Patric’s three pointless games this season, and it would appear the rugged Swede and the quicksilver Russian aren’t a match made in hockey heaven.

Since this hardly is a case of “it ain’t broke, so don’t fix it,” why not reconfigure the top two lines? Team Kessel and Malkin, and pair No. 72 with No. 87.

While not a pure scorer, Hornqvist’s down-and-dirty style has an energizing effect on Sid. It impels the Pens captain—once labeled the most skilled grinder in the league—to get more involved around the net. A task for which, given his uncanny vision and ability to make plays in traffic, not to mention powerful legs and low center of gravity, Crosby is perfectly suited.

Malkin, on the other hand, thrived in the past with a true triggerman on his wing. Remember James Neal? The “Real Deal” blossomed into a 40-goal scorer skating with Geno. Give Kessel a handful of games beside No. 71 and see what happens.

Of course, such a move could backfire and throw Crosby and Company into an even deeper funk. However, with losses piling up faster than power-play goals, it couldn’t hurt to try.

Dumoulin a Plus

A bright spot through the disappointing start? The play of 24-year-old defenseman Brian Dumoulin. Getting his first real shot at full-time NHL duty, the Boston College grad has displayed quick feet and good mobility for a big man (6’4” 219). He also makes a nice first pass and shows a knack for joining the rush. Although not physical—his lone significant shortcoming—he’s been reasonably cool and steady in the defensive zone.

Now, if only the Pens would give Adam Clendening a chance…